MH3 User Guide
Contents
1. 21901 0105 HORI 5 N 1431 0105 14V Add 0105 292 1 I 8 22 Nssv n E 6 5 1 E 21901 9 lt VOA Aaudiidvs m 5 Yt c SOVETON TORINO Santee 95 POL q Zz ra 2 06 TBNNVH2 3 4 5 n 2556 2855 Sdnouo os 5 lt 34 gt IHS gt 5 gt inva WO33 OL s M WE o 5 7 4 08 18084 5 9 89 9 9 07 zuxnv T TT 1 1 H 193410 quxnv MOZ ZML MEL OSL EMLSL 005 0 D 771 o 54 ob TO SPEC Nun au n 3inw Ti 1M3SNI gp9 exny BF H aud 9 9 07 H anas 9 9 07 1M3SNI H ngpo Spo 9xnv NI N3HM H 0 4 M3WHOJSNVMHL 9 02 H sxnv aud D Nd ZH007 0 SP09 01SLe zs eee Daud m SNFaua oy xnv i P 193130 go SSVd IH TN LS FA 1 5 NIVO ass WOINvHa m d xc XC n 4 zxnv 2 SESSSISS A OER T2239 28525555 H g2. WOMJ OL NOILVWOLnY 0105 2901 2901 0105 diio 0105 Xnv d 4 070S 5 TASTE zl DnATVNOLLdO OL 1 5 THOS 5 5 2 1997 ANVLOM iy 1 193146 inaano 2221 apo xl zs FT au saxnv XC uw ngpo i 199195 t pon ngpo n FT zd xvi Sdnouo Cy X H im anas 1N3SNI mun 975 H 250 ais d 9 1 THOT SLAW y hs Eo gio 8 p 2 x ks OL 489 136 ZHMZL _ 696 066 2 09 THT ef gt 1 1 Nun au 8 le yaava s dO OL ET 1 ZHMZL _ 58 066 2 09 1 1 rot 5 v s xi EN THOS 1997 uvo 4 NOLLWWOLNY ows
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4. i ASSUM T T LU E wa ew _ TD SET MUTE Sets MH3 User Guide Scene Control Section Scene Automation 7 Segment Display The 3 digit display with decimal points normally shows the scene number The display also shows the software version number on power up scene store prompts and error messages The three decimal points all flash if the current mute settings or VCA assignment settings if User Mode 3 is active do not match last recalled scene In preview mode the three decimal points all flash if the current preview mute status does not match last preview recalled scene YES NO 1 4 Switches Used to scroll through the scenes Holding down the keys will gradually scroll faster auto scroll Pressing while Recall is being held down will scroll the MUTE GROUPS mm Scene and recall it but not if the display is auto scrolling The YES NO facility is T MN used to confirm or cancel Store or Insert actions eme E The switch LEDs light alternately with Store amp Insert switches during a Store or Insert lt yes gt lt no gt operation i Recall Switch Used recall the scene number displayed If held down the 1 used to scroll through amp recall scenes The switch LED lights when the current displayed scene is not the last recalled ws scene and in Preview mode if current displayed scene is not the last preview r
5. is question pressing the channel SOLO switch on a channel which already is assigned to the selected VCA will de assign it To clear all assignments from a particular channel enter VCA ASSN mode but do not select any VCA master solos Pressing input Solos in this condition will clear all the assignments from those inputs Note VCA assignments are stored in scenes but recall is disabled by default to avoid accidental changes to the programmed assignments To enable scene recall of these see the section on User Modes later in this manual EDIT SAFES EDIT SAFES mode allows the MUTE buttons on inputs and outputs to be used to set those channels into SAFE mode This means that their mutes will not be affected by any mute group scene mute or solo in place mute but can still be manually muted The SAFE PREVIEW LED adjacent to the MUTE switches will illuminate steadily to show that the mute is in SAFE mode Putting a channel into Mute Safe will also unmute the channel if it is muted as a result of anything except a manual press MUTE PREVIEW MUTE PREVIEW mode allows checking of the mute contents of a scene or mute amp roup in the following way When Preview mode is active recalling a scene or mute group will display the muted status of that scene or mute group by flashing the SAFE PREVIEW LED instead of actually muting the channel or output In addition pressing the MUTE switches can be used to edit the recalled scene or mute
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7. 1 OL xc han xc aL oso 193738 WO3 O1 NOILLVWOLNY 0705 31907 0105 xnv Nini 0105 2 0 1M3SNI x MIX L R MATRIX TB OSC GRP 2 4 6 8 GRP 1 3 5 7 SOLO L R MONO CENTRE AUX 9 12 AUX 2 4 6 8 AUX 1 3 5 7 17 Issue iminary Prel MH3 User Guide Monitor 1naino 91 S3NOHd AV 1d3H AW1d34 indino 0105 ngpo 10105 1ndino Y HOLINOW Andino TYOLINOW JONOW To 9a 318VSIa OL ANIT Andino AN 1 sx sasng m 103130 OL 8 01 014 1 ngpo wove TL b LJ Pun F H Ay 193195 lt WONJ OL NOLLWWOLNY 0105 9 B 3982 417 t 0105 T 7 13 31 XIN OL E a apg L7
8. A direct output on balanced 1 4 jack is available from the channel see the rear connector panel The source is controlled by the DIR switch 19 which switches the direct output from pre EQ to post fade when the switch is pressed in In addition there are internal solder links to alter the signal feeds in both of the switch positions as follows DIR switch not pressed pre EQ default OR pre filter DIR switch pressed post fade default OR post EQ Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide Mix Bus Routing and Pan controls The signal is sent to the stereo mix bus and the mono C bus using the MIX 20 and C 21 Switches The PAN control 22 which gives 3dB centre drop operates on the stereo mix bus signal unless LCR panning is engaged When routed the Mono C bus is always fed directly with the post fader signal unless LCR panning is engaged LCR Panning The LCR switch 23 changes the mode of the Pan pot from normal left right panning with a 3dB centre drop to 3 way LCR panning requiring both the mono C bus and stereo mix bus to be routed and the pan pot panning from left to C and C to right When the pot is physically centred there is no output from the left and right mix bus outputs Fader A high quality long throw 100mm fader 24 controls the level to all busses and has 10dB of gain when fully up as well as an expanded scale around the critical unity gain area for maximum resolution MUTE
9. FADER CPU 1 FADER P FADER I P FADER 1 8 8 16 17 24 STE 1 4 FADER 25 32 33 40 41 48 MONITOR Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide Precautions and Safety Instructions General Precautions Avoid storing or using the mixing console in conditions of excessive heat or cold or in positions where it is likely to be subject to vibration dust or moisture Do not use any liquids to clean the fascia of the unit a soft dry brush is ideal Use only water or ethyl alcohol to clean the trim and scribble strips Other solvents may cause damage to paint or plastic parts Avoid using the console close to strong sources of electromagnetic radiation e g video monitors high power electric cabling this may cause degradation of the audio quality due to induced voltages in connecting leads and chassis For the same reason always site the power supply away from the unit Caution In all cases refer servicing to qualified personnel Handling and Transport The console is supplied in a strong carton If it is necessary to move it any distance after installation it is recommended that this packing is used to protect it Be sure to disconnect all cabling before moving If the console is to be regularly moved we recommend that it is installed in a foam lined flightcase At all times avoid applying excessive force to any knobs switches or connectors Power Supplies amp Cables Always use the power supply and
10. Subgroup Routing In addition to the 12 Aux sends 8 busses are provided for conventional subgrouping Routing to these is via 8 individual routing switches 16 Normally the Group switches are fed by a mono sum of left and right signals but the STE switch 17 allows any odd even pair of group busses to be used as a stereo pair following the channel s Balance control Mix Bus Routing and Balance controls The signal is sent to the stereo mix bus and the mono bus using the MIX 18 and C 19 Switches The BAL 20 control allows the left signal to be faded down to zero level when turned fully clockwise and vice versa for the right signal In the centre position both channels are fed at unity gain to the Mix bus The balance control also affects the L R balance within the mono sum Preliminary Issue 25 23 22 ee 24 21 25 ee 26 26 sent to the Aux sends pre or post fade or group busses The C mono bus is always fed directly with a mono sum of the stereo post fader signal Fader A high quality long throw 100mm fader 21 controls the level to all busses and has 10dB of gain when fully up as well as an expanded scale around the critical unity area for maximum resolution MUTE The MUTE switch 22 mutes the signal to all busses including pre fade Aux sends The mute circuit can also be activated by the mute group system an SIP mute signal a VCA mute signal or in
11. clean and dirty mains outlets wired individually back to the incoming mains distribution box Use the clean supply for all audio equipment and the dirty supply for all lighting etc Never mix the two systems If necessary to provide sufficient isolation from mains borne interference install an isolating transformer This should be provided with a Faraday Shield which must be connected with earth Never locate the incoming mains distribution box near audio equipment especially tape recorders which are very sensitive to electro magnetic fields Ensure that all equipment racks are connected to earth via a separate wire back to the star point Equipment which has unbalanced inputs and outputs may need to be isolated from the rack to prevent earth loops Audio Wiring Having provided all equipment with power and earthing connections consideration must be given to the method of providing audio interconnection and adequate screening of those interconnections This must be done in a logical sequence to avoid problems and assist in the localisation of problem equipment Connect the FOH or Monitor system to the console and check for any hum buzz RFI Only when you are satisfied with the quietness of the console and the PA system should you proceed with the next step Connect stereo or multitracktape recorders FX and foldback sends one at a time checking and isolating any connection which degrades performance Connect all o
12. 8 55 d 9 oo lt lt Stereo Input Module MIX LIR MATRIX TB OSC SOLO L R GRP 2 4 6 8 GRP 1 3 5 7 MONO CENTRE AUX 9 12 0105 Q31VALLOV 14V 31907 0105 1H9IN pa 1 ain 1321 5 p EH 1 naa 2901 e EL XE 8 NSSVV2A T 2 o ally 21901 1 XC 9 A3udi33vs 10H1NO2 2288 1918 apor 5855
13. End User End Users who are consumers should note their rights under this Warranty are in addition to and do not affect any other rights to which they may be entitled against the seller of the Equipment Preliminary Issue 5 Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide Installation MH3 User Guide Preliminary Issue 73 2 9 Dimensions and Configurations 543 21 4 OPTIONA METERPOD 741 29 2 813 32 0 1125 44 3 FITTED CENTRALLY TO FACH OPTIONAL VU METERPOD NSOLE SIZE CONSOLE OVERALL WIDTH mm inches 24CH 1419 55 8 32CH 1683 66 2 40CH 1947 76 6 48CH 2211 87 0 56CH 2475 97 4 8 S mo 68 S eo IR 5n SR Sra SA BF o 99000000 SIO IOT I L ISR IOI IO lL 309 000 999090000 p ET a ee eee a us RRR Qacaq OPTIONAL CONSOLE LINK INTERFACE le 8 SEE TABLE FOR OVERALL WIDTH MONO 1 MONO 1 MONO 1 STEREO 1 GROUP MASTER MONO 1 MONO MONO 1 1 9 16 7 d 1 4 1 8 8 25 3 33 40 41 48 8 1 17 24 daraig 32 40 1 4 E OPTIONAL MATRIX EXPANDER MODULE FITS HERE P FADER P FADER 1
14. Master Matrix Module RW 1 k SPTTT SEIT 191191191191 191 19 ms 1 Susan Posen a a cen _ amp Faders 28 Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide s NaS Group Return Module Group and Aux Outputs with Swap facility The key to the dual purpose capability of the MH3 is the reversible signal path which allows either the Group or the Aux Output signal to be controlled by a linear fader and have access to an insert point For FOH applications the groups are required on faders for subgrouping duties and the insert point allows external EQ or dynamics to be used on the group The Aux sends in this application will be used for FX sends so rotary master controls are appropriate By pressing the recessed GRP AUX ON FDR button 1 thereby changing it to AUX mode the console is set up for Stage Monitor use where the Aux Output is controlled by the fader and has use of the insert point for EQ insertion Meanwhile the group output is swapped to the rotary fader Itis possible to swap the fader mode for each of the 8 outputs individually allowing a combination of subgroups and monitor sends on faders This flexibility is essential when doing monitor mixes from FOH Fader Output Section Each ofthe 8 Fader master sections
15. T 1331 N P SJ gp9 7 WIL 2 Th up apo i 8 01 pee E 13 31 E BOLINOW T v e 1 D a H 9 0105 ONOW EE 2 9 Xin Nas 3H1N32 1B3SNI HEEE A4 5 5 Tuo us 15 997564 9 oo 5 AUX 2 4 6 8 AUX 1 3 5 7 MH3 User Guide Issue iminary Prel 18 MATRIX TB OSC VCA CPU ut 1ndino 1 11250 fi 5 2 sng 250 81 3SION 59 apoz H 11250 Sasn 13 31 e 01 250 I 5 2 A rss e boss OX r V 2 1H9 NI IAIN 1331 e oL 250 81 BOVLIOA 1081NO2 INIT N3HM 8401 MEET enm HOLIMS 21907 8401 0105 5 m p 0105 gt 21501 AVMeSZ YILSYN 22 woud s 20 88015 3dAL d 82 3AV1S OL OYLNOD 5 sasna 0105 INAN Isaxnvisduo Tiv
16. The MUTE switch 25 mutes the signal to all busses including pre fade Aux sends The mute circuit can also be activated by the mute group system a SIP mute signal a VCA mute signal or internal snapshot control from the scene computer A Preview mode allows editing and checking of mute groups and snapshots without disturbing the audio passing through the desk and Mutes can be set Safe SAFE PREV LED The SAFE PREV LED is used to indicate the Mute Safe status of the channel or Preview mute status if the console is in Preview mode The channel is toggled in or out of SAFE mode using the MUTE switch after first engaging EDIT SAFES mode on the master CPU panel Steady illumination of the LED indicates a mute safe condition Preview status is indicated by flashing illumination upon entering Preview mode from the master module if the Mute is present in the previewed mute group or scene LED Input Metering Every channel is fitted with a 12 segment LED bargraph meter 26 positioned next to each fader for maximum visibility and giving immediate graphic indication of incoming signals at the insert return VCA Assign LEDs The module is assigned to the 8 VCA Groups using the SOLO button 27 on each channel in conjunction with the VCA Master SOLO switches The whole console has to be switched into the VCA Assign Mode press the VCA Assign Mode switch located at the top of the master cpu panel in order for the SOLO switch functions to
17. applications where the scene automation is not being used Accidental presssing of the Recall or Next switches could then result in the current VCA assignments being unassigned during a performance so this function is disabled For theatrical applications it can be useful to have VCAs change their assignments with scene changes if this is required VCA Recall can be enabled Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide Snapshot Recall Mute Update On Off Normally recalling scenes automatically recalls the stored mute settings as well as sending out a midi program change message However there may be times when you want to send the midi program changes but NOT have the mutes continually being reset Switching off the mute recall allows the scene control section to be used as a remote control for MIDI FX without affecting console mutes Mute Groups remain fully operational when scene mute recall has been disabled Scene Recall MIDI Tx Program Change On Off In some circumstances it may be necessary to inhibit the sending of MIDI program changes when recalling scenes for example if program changes are not being used to recall patches on FX units but channel mutes are being used to trigger sound FX samples the program change may disrupt the operation of the sampler MIDI Out amp Thru Rear Panel Connector Soundcraft Preliminary Issue 39 40 Power Down Settings The following settings are saved to EPROM on po
18. associated with the corresponding Output Fader directly below it The FX Return section continues to operate as before but without EQ The EQ section comprises fixed shelving HF 21 and LF 22 bands at 12kHz and 60Hz respectively with a swept mid band 23 from 350Hz to 3 5kHz The mid band Q is fixed at 1 1 15dB of cut or boost is available on all bands The EQ can be switched in or out using the illuminated EQ switch 24 Rear Connector INSERT SEND amp INSERT RETURN GRP AUX 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground STEREO FX RETURN L amp R 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground GROUP amp AUX OUTPUTS 3 pin male XLR Pin 1 Ground Pin 2 Signal Hot Pin 3 Signal Cold Note mono signals can be connected to the Left input jack and this will automatically be fed to both sides of the stereo return Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide E 9 i i 91 a l 51 at 19 k 4 d 9 912 E E D 909 7 E pr EI M1 Be 2 2 Ele L 2 8 11 He MH3 User Guide O Master Matrix Module Aux 9 12 Outputs Section Aux Outputs from 9 12 have their own dedicated output section and are always controlled by linear faders Each fader 1 feeds the Aux signal to balanced rear panel XLR ou
19. comprises a 60mm fader 2 which feeds either the Group or Aux signals to their respective balanced XLRs on the rear panel A pre fade balanced insert point via separate 1 4 jacks allows insertion of EQ or dynamics Each fader knob is colour co ordinated with its Aux bus send control for easy identification when controlling Monitor mixes and the 12 segment bargraph meter 3 at the top of the module provides line of sight metering of any fader controlled output The TB osc button 4 routes talkback tone or pink noise from the central talkback oscillator section to whichever output is being controlled by the fader Illuminated Mute 5 and AFL solo 6 buttons are provided for each fader If stereo subgroups or In Ear sends are in use the AFLs can be linked as a stereo pair by pressing both adjacent buttons at the same time when linked the AFL appears as a stereo AFL in the stereo wedge amp phones outputs Once a pair of AFLs are linked they stay linked until the two AFL buttons are pressed simultaneously again Linked pairs remain linked even if the console is powered down and then powered up again Rotary Output Section Each of the 8 Rotary master section is equipped with a colour coded rotary fader 7 and AFL solo 8 and MUTE 9 controls AFL stereo linking is not available on the rotary output section Group to Mix Section The Group signal path regardless of whether it is controlled by the fader or not can always be ro
20. power up If an LED is lit during power up that mode is active To toggle a user mode on off hold the relevant switch es down during power up until its internal LED changes state The modes are as follows Mode Function Factory Default 1 Mute Group Masters as scene shortcuts Not enabled 2 MIDI Note Mode enabled sequencer not enabled sampler Not enabled 3 Scene Recall VCA Assign On Not enabled 4 Scene Recall Mute update Off Not enabled 5 Scene Recall MIDI Tx Program Change Off Not enabled 6 Scene RECALL auto increment On Not enabled Application Notes Mute Group Masters as Scene Shortcuts On Off Normally the Mute Masters function as Mute Groups and much of the time in Rock and Roll type production the Mute Groups will be used exclusively with little use of the Scene automation However if more intensive use of scene based automation is required it can be convenient to have short cut keys to jump to key scenes instead of mute groups Midi Note Mode Sequencer Sampler The most likely application of the midi control from mute switches will be triggering of sound effects via a sampler so this mode is enabled by default If it is required to dynamically automate the mutes this can be done by recording the mute presses to a midi sequencer in this case Sequencer mode must be selected Snapshot VCA Recall On Off This is disabled by default as it is a potentially dangerous mode particularly for normal rock and roll type
21. I Dump In will be carried out The display will flash di during the dump Each packet is received decoded amp checked and if there are no checksum or other errors the data will be written to EEPROM If there are problems an error message will be displayed The console will revert to normal operation if no further sysex message is received 1 second after receiving the previous sysex message During a dump in no MIDI mute messages will be transmitted Notes Any packets can be received in any order On receiving a valid Dump Sysex Packet the console will enter Dump In mode Dump In mode won t be entered for a Dump Request SysEx A Dump In will be ignored if in Preview SIP Active modes or if currently dumping out User Guide Preliminary Issue 4l 42 Console Linking Option The console can be fitted with an optional linking module with both audio and logic interfaces provided for connecting a second slave console when more input channels are required Note that only two consoles can be linked and each one must be futted with a linking module Installing The Optional Linking Module Remove the 10 screws from blank panel which is to the right of the MIDI connector panel and remove the panel Inside the console you will find 2 ribbon cables 26 way to the left and a 50 to the centre and an earth wire Attach the cables and earth wire to the Linking module Using the screws which held the blank panel in p
22. M MIL EE EM 68kg 1501 Corp H n 80kg 17610 AO CM MT TT eom V X n P 92kg 202 T e m 103kg 22710 zn MT i 115kg 25310 Operating Conditions 10 to 30 0 to 80 48 Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide
23. MH3 User Guide 7E Soundcraft MH3 User Guide Preliminary Issue 1 Please read this manual carefully before using your mixer for the first time Harman International Industries Ltd 2003 All rights reserved Parts of the design of this product may be protected by worldwide patents Part No ZM0278 Issue Preliminary 8 1 03 Soundcraft is a trading division of Harman International Industries Ltd Information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor Soundcraft shall not be liable for any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the use of information or any error contained in this manual No part of this manual may be reproduced stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic electrical mechanical optical chemical including photocopying and recording for any purpose without the express written permission of Soundcraft Harman International Industries Limited Cranborne House Cranborne Road POTTERS BAR Hertfordshire EN6 3JN UK 44 0 1707 665000 Fax 44 0 1707 660742 http www soundcraft com Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide Introduction MH3 User Guide Preliminary Issue Key Features Versatile design allows FOH Monitors or Monitors from FOH Semi modular for flexible layouts and easy serviceability Frame sizes 24 mono 4 stereo 32 mono 4 stereo 40 mono 4
24. OL olanv ngpo pzz OO0 4555 555 NI1310SN02 9 lt lt lt 2 20 98345 92545 855445 9 lt lt z 19 Issue iminary Prel User Guide 20 Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide User Guide Console Operation Preliminary Issue 21 e NU Mono Input Module Mono inputs are modular in blocks of 8 channels and feature an integral rear connector panel Pre Amp The module s pre amp features a high headroom and outstanding CMRR performance The XLR input can handle signals up to 26dBu with a gain range of 15dBu to 60dBu 1 and a 20dB gain change switch 2 A Peak LED 3 indicates internal signal levels in excess of 18dBu This monitors both the pre amp output and the EQ section output Polarity Reverse 4 and Phantom Power switching 5 is provided with both front 6 and rear panel indication of phantom power status Note the 48V LEDs do NOT auto sense the presence of external phantom power as on the 4 Balanced Insert Point Separate jacks provide a pre EQ balanced send and return at a nominal level of OdBu See the rear panel connectors EQ and HI PASS Filter This new design retains the traditional Soundcraft response but incorporates steeper slopes on the HF stage focussing the control where you want it and some carefully tailored overshoot on the LF band which automa
25. als If the meterbridge is not fitted these switches are covered by a removable blanking plate The Meterbridge features a bank of 8 medium size VU meters are switched to meter one of three banks of sources using the FDR 1 8 28 AUX 9 12 29 and MTX 30 The FDR 1 8 switch selects the signals from Aux Group Faders 1 8 to be fed to the 8 meters The AUX 9 12 switch selects the Aux 9 12 signals to be fed to the first 4 meters The MTX switch selects the Matrix 1 4 signals and 5 8 if the optional matrix expander is fitted to be fed to the 4 8 meters The three switches are interlocked Preliminary Issue 33 34 MUTE GROUPS OPERATION Automation CPU Panel The automation computer section occupies the fader panel area between the VCA Master faders and the Master Monitor Phones controls The functions of this section are Mute Scene Automation 128 Mute Scenes with MIDI Program Change Insert Store Recall Next Up Down 7 segment display with Preview Edit Scenes can also store VCA assignments refer to VCA ASSIGN section below 8 Mute Groups with Preview Edit 8 VCA Groups with Master Mutes amp VCA Solo e Solo System AFL PFL control SIP Solo Clear Input Priority Auto cancel Safe System Safe from Scenes Mute Groups VCA Master Mutes MIDI Mutes amp SIP Mutes Preview System Allows preview amp edit of Scenes and Mute Groups MIDI System Mute control via Note On O
26. as a front panel XLR 6 for mic input with adjustable gain from 20 50dB 7 48V phantom power is available via an internal jumper The mic signal can be routed either to selected internal busses by pressing the INT button 8 together with the appropriate TB Osc button s or sent to a proprietary intercom output compatible with Soundcraft MH4 Series FIVE and SM Series consoles using the EXT button 9 The INT and EXT buttons are momentary if pressed for more than 0 5 seconds otherwise they are latching The Oscillator generates either tone from 55Hz to 11kHz 10 or pink noise 11 It has a Level control 12 and its own independent balanced XLR output on the rear panel The oscilator signal is routed to its XLR via the EXT switch 13 It is routed to internal console busses by pressing the OSC TO BUSSES switch 14 and the local TB osc switches on the desired output The TB Osc switches for the MIX 15 and C busses 16 are located adjacent to the OSC TO BUSSES switch PSU Status Indicators Three red PSU Status LEDs 17 indicate normal PSU rail operation Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide Monitor and Headphones Outputs Separate level controls 18 amp 19 are provided for engineer s monitor speakers and headphones The signal source for these outputs is common and can be selected from the post fade MIX signal 20 the Centre mono MIX signal to both L and R outputs 21 or the 2TK replay inp
27. be changed in this way The current VCA assignments are indicated on the 8 VCA Assign LEDs 28 adjacent to the fader SOLO The Solo button provides a PFL feed to the engineer s headphones or monitors or triggers a destructive solo in place depending on mode selection at the master section The solo button can also be activated remotely from a VCA solo when assigned to a VCA group giving Stereo AFL Intercancel or additive soloing is possible with or without input priority and solos can be cleared with a single button press at the master section The solo buttons also feature automatic momentary operation by pressing and holding for more than 0 55 Preliminary Issue 23 Mono Input Rear Connector Panel INPUT 3 pin female XLR Pin 1 Ground Pin 2 Signal Hot Pin 3 Signal Cold INSERT SEND 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground INSERT RETURN 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground DIR 0 P 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground Note the small hole in the rear panel below the Input XLR is to allow factory adjustment of the module s internal VCA element No further adjustment of this is required or should be attempted unless the VCA element is replaced during servicing Solder Link Options The MH3 contains some optional links which allow certain internal signal feeds to be changed to suit user preference For maximum reliability these are
28. cable supplied with the mixer the use of alternative supplies may cause damage and voids the warranty the extension of power cables may result in malfunction of the mixing console W arning Always switch the power supply off before connecting or disconnecting the mixer power cable removing or installing modules and servicing In the event of an electrical storm or large mains voltage fluctuations immediately switch off the PSU and unplug from the mains W arning Always ensure that you use the correct PSU 5800 for your mixer Signal Levels It is important to supply the correct input levels to the console otherwise signal to noise ratio or distortion performance may be degraded and in extreme cases damage to the internal circuitry may result Likewise on all balanced inputs avoid sources with large common mode DC AC or RF voltages as these will reduce the available signal range on the inputs Note that OdBu 0 775V RMS Refer to the Specifications section for details of input and output levels Preliminary Issue 9 10 Mains Installation General Wiring Procedures To take full advantage of the excellent signal to noise ratio and low distortion of Soundcraft consoles care must be taken to ensure that incorrect installation and wiring does not degrade the performance of the desk Hum buzz instability and Radio Frequency interference can usually be traced to earth loops and inferior earthing systems In some areas e
29. d Preliminary Issue 11 Connections Audio Connectors ALL INPUTS ALL OUTPUTS 3 pole XLR GROUND SCREEN COLD OUT OF PHASE SIGNAL Set HOT IN PHASE SIGNAL 1 4 Stereo Jack Plug used as balanced Input Output All Jacks Except Headphones Ring COLD OUT OF PHASE SIGNAL o Sleeve GROUND SCREEN Tip HOT IN PHASE SIGNAL 1 4 Stereo Jack Plug used For Headphones Ring RIGHT SIGNAL sd Sleeve GROUND SCREEN Lamp Connectors Pins 1 and 3 12V Pin 4 OV MIDI Connectors MIDI IN MIDI THRU MIDI OUT aff 2S Not Used Midi In Not Used Midi In Not Used Not Used MIDI Thru GND MIDI Thru Not Used Not Used MIDI Out GND MIDI Out Not Used The MIDI IN signal is buffered by an opto isolator Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide User Guide BLOCK DIAGRAMS Preliminary Issue MATRIX TB OSC Mono Input Module 0105 Q31VALLOV 13V
30. d for members of any active VCA Master Mutes flashing plus any relevant mutes are activated for members of any active Mute Groups The master and slave console are now fully synchronized and are in Normal State ready for operation The linked consoles now remain in a linked configuration with a hello call reply handshake every 10s If the handshake times out all solos will be cleared on both consoles and the slave console will return to normal mode i e Edit Safes Preview VCA Assign will be exited The Slave console will revert to displaying SLA waiting for the link to be re established During this time only mute and solo automation is available on the slave If a link is re established the slave console once again inherits the master s console settings as above and cascaded console operation continues once again If a link is not re established within 30s both consoles will revert to being an independent Master console with full automation independently per console This is to allow access to all automation functions on each console in the case of emergency where the link has been permanently severed A link can now not be re established without re booting both consoles and re establishing a link Cascaded Operation Once a link is established all Scene Mode Mute Group and VCA Master Mute automation is carried out from the master console The following switches LEDs on the slave console will be unused at all times i e depressi
31. d to the engineer s headphones or monitors or triggers a destructive solo in place depending on mode selection at the master section The solo button can also be activated remotely from a VCA solo when assigned to a VCA group giving Stereo AFL Intercancel or additive soloing is possible with or without input priority and solos can be cleared with a single button press at the master section Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide 5 5 ED ES o MH3 User Guide rs Stereo Input Rear Connector Panel LEFT RIGHT INPUTS 3 pin female XLR Pin 1 Ground Pin 2 Signal Hot Pin 3 Signal Cold LEFT RIGHT INSERT SEND 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground LEFT RIGHT INSERT RETURN 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground Note the small hole in the rear panel below the Input XLRs is to allow factory adjustment of the module s internal VCA elements No further adjustment of these is required or should be attempted unless the VCA elements are replaced during servicing Solder Link Options The MH3 contains some optional links which allow certain internal signal feeds to be changed to suit user preference For maximum reliability these are solder links rather than push on jumpers in most cases Each link has its function identified by text on the pcb To change the default setting it is necessary to remove a zero ohm resist
32. e channels and the Mute status will be shown on the flashing preview LEDs rather than the switches themselves The following notes apply to Mute Groups Channels or outputs will not mute if they are Safe They will not unmute if they are also Muted as the result of another active Mute Group or VCA Group inputs only or if they have been manually muted A Mute Group Master will not activate if no channels have been assigned to it or all its members are safed An active Mute Group will be automatically deactivated if at any point all its members are made safe if all its members are unmuted or if it is made to have no members Mute Group Masters as Scene Shortcuts User Mode 1 Mute Group Masters as scene shortcuts active Normally User Mode 1 is not active and the Mute Masters function as Mute Groups If User Mode 1 Mute Group Masters as scene shortcuts is active pressing a Mute Group Master will recall the scene assigned to that Mute Group If in preview mode pressing a Mute Group Master will preview recall the scene assigned to that Mute Group To assign a scene to a shortcut key first select and recall the required scene number using the Up Dwn and Recall switches then hold down the Store switch above the Mute Masters and press the required Mute Master switch The console is supplied by default to have Scenes 1 8 assigned to Mute Masters 1 8 Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide VCA ASSIGN 8 SCENE CONTROL TU ASSN
33. ecalled scene Next Switch E Used to recall the currently displayed scene plus 1 It does not work with 1 keys as per the Recall switch but instead allows automatic sequential recall of scenes when repeatedly pressed Store Switch Used to store the current mute settings and VCA assignments over the scene number displayed When pressed the display will show scene number gt lt yes gt lt no gt 5 1 2 LEDs will flash alternately Press fl Yes to store the scene Press No to cancel the store operation Insert Switch Used to store the current mute settings at the scene number displayed and shuffling all the higher number scenes up by one Note that this means that any scene data stored in scene 128 will be lost When pressed the display will show scene number gt lt yes gt lt no gt The Insert LEDs will flash alternately Press fl Yes to insert the scene and erase any data in scene 128 Press No to cancel the insert operation Preliminary Issue 37 38 User Modes There are 6 special User Modes that allow the functionality of the console to be customised according to user requirements These are designed to be things that don t need to be changed very often Once set the User Modes are memorised on subsequent power down so only have to be set once The current status of the User Modes for the console is displayed for approx 2 seconds by illumination of the Mute Group Master LEDs during
34. ffs Scene control via Program Change System Exclusive Dumps BSS Varicurve MIDI loop support dbx Driverack 480 Output sysex protocol support Cascade System Linking 2 consoles automation amp solo logic via RS232 Miscellaneous User modes for Recall VCA assignments in scenes Recall mutes in scenes Transmit Program Changes on off Mute Groups as scene shortcuts Auto increment on scene recall MIDI automation Note Mode Hard Reset Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide ASSIGN 8 SCENE CONTROL cA ASRCM orf ASSN amp TD SET MUTE Sets MH3 User Guide E LN Assignment controls VCA ASSIGN The VCA ASSIGN switch selects VCA Assign mode To assign channels to VCAs first press the VCA Assign Mode switch then the SOLO buttons on one or more VCA master faders these SOLO buttons start flashing Then press the SOLO buttons of any channels required to be part of those groups The VCA Assign LEDs on the channels illuminate to indicate the assignment The assignments can be deselected by a second press on the channel SOLO button this then acts like a toggle for assigning and de assigning When finished press the VCA Assign mode switch again to turn off the flashing and lock the assignments This will happen automatically if no solo buttons are pressed for a period of 20 seconds To deselect any individual assignment repeat the procedure for assigning to the
35. for Left and Right channels at a nominal level of OdBu See the rear connector panel EQ and HI PASS Filter The EQ section is stereo four band with sweepable frequencies on all bands and is enabled by pressing the EQ switch 7 The frequency ranges are 35Hz 400Hz LF 8 250Hz 2 5kHz Low Mid 9 500Hz 5kHz High Mid 10 and 1 8kHz 16kHz HF 11 with 15cB of cut or boost available at any frequency The Q is fixed on all bands at 1 1 The stereo High pass filter is fixed at 80Hz and is switched in with the High pass switch 12 Aux Sends As on the mono input there are 12 sends 13 for FX or Monitor use Aux 1 amp 2 and 3 amp 4 can be switched to stereo pairs for in ear sends using the adjacent STE switches 14 colour coded to match the relevant send knob In this case the A1 knob becomes a stereo Level control and the A2 knob becomes the PAN between Aux 1 and Aux 2 Similarly for Aux 3 amp 4 Each send has 5dB of gain at maximum and is always fed from a mono sum of the left and right signals If Aux 1 amp 2 or Aux 3 amp 4 are switched to stereo these sends are fed with a stereo signal left to Aux 1 3 and right to Aux 2 4 The Auxes can be switched Pre or Post fader by the adjacent PRE switches 15 which are in pairs for the first 8 sends and as one group for Aux 9 12 The default Pre fade signal for all Auxes is pre EQ but can be changed to post EQ via internal links both feeds follow the channel mute
36. group and it can then be re stored or overwritten to the current scene or another scene Pressing the Mute Preview switch will toggle in and out of preview mode Note that the mute safe status of channels cannot be seen whilst Mute Preview mode is active because the same LED is used No MIDI control to or from the console is possible when Preview Mode is active Preliminary Issue 32 TU 15508 amp VCA ASSIGN 8 SCENE CONTROL TD SET Sees 36 SS Mute Groups Mute Group Master switches Up to 8 Mute Groups can be created and controlled from the 8 Mute Master switches In a special mode accessible using User Modes see later the function of the Mute Masters can be changed so that they become Instant Recall or Shortcut keys for any of the 128 mute scenes In this mode Mute Groups are not available The Mute Group Master switches are used to select or change User Modes whilst the console is powering up see later on User Modes MUTE GROUPS CADE OrTRATION Mute Group Masters in Mute Groups Mode default mode To store a Mute Group first switch on the Channel or Output Mutes required then hold down the STORE switch immediately above the Mute Master switches and press the desired Mute Master switch Mute Groups can be set up edited and tested in Preview mode the procedure is the same the only difference is that pressing the Mute switches will not actually mute th
37. he remaining section of the Master Matrix module contains the main L R and C output faders Alternate stereo mix output a noise or sine wave test oscillator and internal external talkback functions This section also contains the monitor outputs 2 Track retum and monitor source controls Main Output Faders Three 100mm high quality faders 1 control the Stereo Mix Left and Right and Centre Mono Mix output levels These are fed to balanced XLRs on the rear panel The Centre fader can be used to control the Monitors level for feeding wedges in a stage monitor application by pressing the Use C Fader button 2 The Centre output level will then be contolled by the rotary MNTR control Alternate stereo mix output The ALT output is an additional stereo output switchable pre or post 3 the MIX master faders and controlled by the ALT STE rotary fader 4 The outputs appear on balanced XLRs on the rear panel Both L and R outputs can be fed by a mono sum of the MIX L and R signals using the MNO switch 5 effectively giving two fader controlled mono sum mix outputs Insert Points Pre fade MIX L R and C mono insert points use balanced sends and returns on separate 1 4 jacks on the rear panel Talkback and Oscillator section The talkback and oscillator sections share a common set of TB osc routing buttons allowing them to access any of the Fader controlled outputs and the Matrix outputs The talkback section h
38. inary Issue 47 Input amp Output Impedances LECHE TOT Ec y 2kQ AlkotheriNPUtS eR gt 10 gt dened 0 330 Recommended h phone impedance 0044000000 enne nenne nnne nnne nnne nnn nnns 4 6000 other Ouptuts 0 2 1 nnn nennen nnne nnns T5Q Oscillator E OI 55Hz to 11kHz Pink Noise variable level HP Fliter Mono Input 30 400Hz 12dB octave EQ Mono Input EP 1kHz 20kHz 15dB shelving DISP NT T 750Hz 13kHz 15dB Q 0 5 3 0 EO MICS pe 75Hz 1 3kHz 15dB 0 0 5 3 0 REOR UBI 30Hz 500Hz 15dB shelving Metering Internal 12 segment LED bargraphs for all inputs and Outputs 24 segment for L R C Outputs Optional VU Meterpod 8 VU meters monitoring O P Faders 1 8 Aux 9 12 Matrix 1 4 via bank selection and L R C Power Consumption Mains Power 56ch 600VA max 24ch 300VA max 48Ch console each 17V rail takes 8 5A nominal measured with 4 Littlites connected the 8V rail takes 0 2A nominal Welght Q
39. ions globally over both consoles For instance when Auto Cancel Input Priority is On Activating an input solo on the slave will cancel any other input solos on the slave plus cancel any input solos on the master Mute Group Operation over cascaded consoles All Mute Group automation is carried out from the master console Relevant messages are automatically sent to the slave console invoking the slave console to update its settings to maintain synchronicity with the master console The Mute Group Master switches on the slave console are disabled VCA Master Mute Solo over cascaded consoles All VCA Master automation is carried out from the master console Relevant messages are automatically sent to the slave console invoking the slave console to update its settings to maintain synchronicity with the master console The VCA Master switches on the slave console are disabled Scene Automation over cascaded consoles All Scene automation Scene UP DN Recall Next Store Insert is carried out from the master console Relevant messages are automatically sent to the slave console invoking the slave console to update its settings to maintain synchronicity with the master console Mode Switching over cascaded consoles All mode switching Edit Safes Preview VCA Assign is carried out from the master console Relevant messages are automatically sent to the slave console invoking the slave console to update its settings to maintain synchronicit
40. l present a short circuit at RF frequencies thus lowering the effective shield impedance to ground However at low audio frequencies the reactance of the capacitor will be sufficiently high not to cause an earth loop problem Points to Remember In all cases use good quality twin screened audio cable Check for instability at the output Always connect both conductors at both ends and ensure that the screen is only connected at one end Do not disconnect the mains earth from each piece of equipment This is needed to provide both safety and screen returns to the system star point Equipment which has balanced inputs and outputs may need to be electrically isolated from the equipment rack and or other equipment to avoid earth loops It is important to remember that all equipment which is connected to the mains is a potential source of hum and interference and may radiate both electrostatic or electromagnetic radiation In addition the mains will also act as a carrier for many forms of RF interference generated by electric motors air conditioning units thyristor light dimmers etc Unless the earth system is clean all attempts to improve hum noise levels will be futile In extreme cases there will be no alternative but to provide a completely separate and independent technical earth to replace the incoming noisy earth However always consult your local electricity supply authority to ensure that safety regulations are not being infringe
41. lace secure the linking module to the console On the MIDI rear connector pcb there are 8 dip switches these will have to be moved to the OFF position You may have to temporarily remove the MIDI board to gain access to the DIP switches Replace the MIDI pcb A linking module must be fitted to each of the two consoles that you want to link Audio Linking Audio linking is accomplished by simply connecting the main outputs group aux mix solo etc of the slave console to the corresponding bus inputs of the master console using a female XLR to 1 4 jack multicore A 25 way multicore is required Logic Linking VCAs Mute Groups and Solos A 15 way proprietary link cable is used to link the VCAs and other facilities This is compatible with Soundcraft MH4 consoles Linking of the VCAs is done using a parallel interface with VCA bus inputs on the TO MASTER connector and outputs on the TO SLAVE connector Master slave designation will depend on which way round the cable is connected i e connect TO MASTER of the Slave console to TO SLAVE on the Master console bss wun mo s 2 8227 wr 1 The Mute Groups Solos and automation of two consoles are linked by means of an RS232 serial connection within the 15 wy proprietary link referred to below as the Cascade Cable joining the internal CPUs of both consoles The consoles must be linked at boot up The console checks for the presence of a ca
42. nd or usability thereof is materially affected the Equipment or the defective component should be returned to the Dealer or to Soundcraft and subject to the following conditions the Dealer or Soundcraft will repair or replace the defective components Any components replaced will become the property of Soundcraft Any Equipment or component returned will be at the risk of the End User whilst in transit both to and from the Dealer or Soundcraft and postage must be prepaid This warranty shall only be available if a the Equipment has been properly installed in accordance with instructions contained in Soundcraft s manual and b the End User has notified Soundcraft or the Dealer within 14 days of the defect appearing and C no persons other than authorised representatives of Soundcraft or the Dealer have effected any replacement of parts maintenance adjustments or repairs to the Equipment and d the End User has used the Equipment only for such purposes as Soundcraft recommends with only such operating supplies as meet Soundcraft s specifications and otherwise in all respects in accordance Soundcraft s recommendations Defects arising as a result of the following are not covered by this Warranty faulty or negligent handling chemical or electro chemical or electrical influences accidental damage Acts of God neglect deficiency in electrical power air conditioning or humidity control The benefit of this Warranty may not be assigned by the
43. ng the switches will have no effect whatsoever LEDs always half brightness except for initiating a MIDI Dump Out Edit Safes VCA Assign Preview Insert Store Next UP DN Recall MG Store MG Masters 1 8 VCA Master Mutes VCA Master Solos VCA Master Levels Exception Pressing UP DN and Recall simultaneously on the slave console initiates a local MIDI Dump Out The 7 segment display on the slave console always follows the master console except during MIDI Dumps where the dumping console displays di or do and the remote console displays The solo automation controls that is SIP Auto Cancel IP Priority Solo Clear are still active on both master and slave consoles These features will function globally over both consoles allowing solo control to be activated from either console The solo automation controls hence are always kept consistent with each other over both consoles i e activating the SIP switch on the master console will also invoke the slave console to enter relevant SIP mode Preliminary Issue 43 44 and to light it s SIP LED etc User Modes over cascaded consoles User modes can be configured independently per console However inherently User Modes 1 Mute Groups Recall Scenes 5 Program Change Tx OFF and 6 Recall Auto Increment will have no affect on the slave console Solo Modes over cascaded consoles The solo mode Normal Input Priority Input Priority Auto Cancel Auto Cancel funct
44. nput faders ec Grp fader OdB aa 48 channels routed 85dBu Aux Output input sends Aux fader OdB 48 channels routed 86dBu Crosstalk 1kHz 20dBu input signals cose o desees DI Ir ee e es gt 95dB fader gt 88dB MPU OAM pot IsOlatlO 2552 adi gt 72dB ROUTINE isolati n aie rec D ene eret tite ee ens gt 100dB Gro p routing gt 99dB PrOUD Crosstalk ade doce eens lt 92dB Group MIX CrOSSLAIK be e Tg d 100dB Mix Group crosstalk 2 2 asses bola eee 100dB Aux Send sa 80dB CMRR MONON PU 85dB 1kHz Input amp Output Levels MPU nennen nennen nen 26dBu max Balanced erre veo e re ere AEAN e Rn SE REEL ERN REUS 21dBu max Balanced 5 4 40444 4 2 1 0 00000 seen nennen 21dBu max Nominal Operating 87 nenas nns OdBu User Guide Prelim
45. or which sets the default routing and then create a solder bridge between the relevant pair of solder pads Once the resistor is removed it can be discarded A second pair of solder pads adjacent to the resistor allows the default setting to be restored if required Function Options Default Aux PRE source L muted pre or post EQ muted post EQ R42 Aux PRE source R muted pre or post EQ muted post EQ R63 Preliminary Issue 27 Output Section Overview The Output Section is split into two modules The fader panel below these output modules contains the 8 VCA master faders and a separate CPU Module which houses controls for snapshot automation mute groups and solo modes The layout of the output section is clear and offers excellent flexibility as well as numerous facilities The Group Return module controls the first 8 Aux Outputs the 8 Group Outputs plus 8 Stereo FX Return inputs The 8 faders on this module can control either Group or Aux Outputs depending on recessed switch settings this is the key to the dual purpose capability of the MH3 The Master Matrix module houses the remaining 4 Aux Outputs Aux 9 12 which are always controlled by faders plus the 4 Matrix outputs and all the Master facilities including LCR master faders monitoring and talkback Atthe top of both modules 12 segment LED bargraph meters monitor the output levels The main LCR outputs incorporate higher resolution 24 segment meters Group Return Module
46. program changes associated with scene recall will ever be transmitted by the slave console Dbx Driverack 480 AFL Protocol Solos The Dbx Driverack 480 AFL implementation functions locally for each console Any MIDI solo messages received at the console s MIDI In port will locally activate deactivate AFL solos as usual All MIDI solo messages associated with manual solo activation deactivation will be transmitted via the local MIDI Out port as usual BSS Varicurve MIDI Loop Mode The BSS MIDI Loop AFL implementation functions locally for each console Preliminary Issue 45 46 Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 Typical Specifications Frequency Response XLR input to ANY 0 1dB 20Hz 20kHz T H D amp Noise All measurements at 10dBu MURA LO Direct UE EE lt 0 015 1kHz E E lt 0 02 10kHz XLR inito MIX QUE ick nasa 0 01596 91 kHz wn M E MEME UE lt 0 02 10 7 ED 128dBu 150 Ohm source 22Hz 22kHz bandwidth unweighted Residual NOISE 95dBu Mix Output no inputs routed Mix fader 0 BUS SER ER ERE EDS Mix Output input faders 9 Mix fader OdB O E 48 channels routed 85dBu ERE ANM Grp Output i
47. scade cable at its cascade port at boot up From this it determines whether it is a Master standalone Master Cascadable or Slave Cascadable console A link is automatically established when two consoles linked with a cascade cable are booted up When the link is established the slave console inherits the master console s settings The slave display will flash SLA until synchronisation with the master is automatically achieved Once linked all Automation operation from the slave console is disabled except for SIP Auto Cancel IP Priority amp Solo Clear which function mutually inclusively with the respective master Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide console controls This means that solo control is global and can be activated from either the master or slave console Automation behaviour is identical over cascaded consoles as for a standalone console one exception to this Is for initiating a MIDI Dump Out If UP DN and Recall are pressed simultaneously on the slave console a local MIDI Dump Out will be initiated A link will not be established unless master console is in normal mode i e not in Edit Safes Preview VCA Assign SIP Active Dump In Dump Out mode All active solos will be cleared on both consoles on establishing a link Link established Synchronizing Console Settings The slave now updates the seven segment display to the same as the master console Any relevant mutes are activate
48. solder links rather than push on jumpers in most cases Each link has its function identified by text on the pcb To change the default setting it is necessary to remove a zero ohm resistor which sets the default routing and then create a solder bridge between the relevant pair of solder pads Once the resistor is removed it can be discarded A second pair of solder pads adjacent to the resistor allows the default setting to be restored if required Function Options Default Aux PRE source muted pre or post EQ or pre insert muted pre insert R218 Direct source Pre EQ or pre filter both non muted Pre EQ R217 DIR switch up Direct source Post fade or post EQ Post fade R212 DIR switch down Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide B e LJ b o MH3 User Guide a Stereo Input Module Input stage A stereo version of the Mono input s high performance pre amp offers the same gain range of 15dBu to 60dBu 1 and 2088 gain change switch 2 It also has Phantom Power switching 3 and polarity reverse on the left channel 4 The peak LED 5 indicates signals in excess of 18dBu on either left or right channels while two MONO switches 6 cut either Left or Right channel feeding the alternate channel to both module paths or if both are pressed a mono sum of L and R to the module paths Balanced Insert Points with INS switch Separate jacks provide a pre EQ balanced send and return
49. specially heavily industrial areas the incoming mains earth will not be adequate and a separate technical earth for all the audio equipment must be supplied However check with your local electricity supply company to ensure that safety regulations are not infringed or negated The successful hum free installation of a system requires forethought and the establishment of a set of ground rules which must be consistently adhered to at all stages of installation Initial Wiring Considerations For optimum performance it is essential for the earthing system to be clean and noise free as all signals are referenced to this earth A central point should be decided on for the main earth point system and all earths should be star fed from this point It is common electrical practice to daisy chain the earths to all electrical outlets but this method is unsuitable for audio installations The preferred method is to run an individual earth wire from each outlet back to the system star point to provide a safety earth screen reference for each piece of equipment A separate earth wire should also be run from each equipment rack and area to the star point This may or may not be used depending on circumstances but it is easier to install in the first place than later when problems arise The location of the star point should be a convenient easily accessible place preferably at the rear of the console or in the main equipment rack Install separate
50. stereo 48 mono 4 stereo 56 mono 4 stereo Flexible Auxiliary Bus structure with 2 stereo sends for in ear monitoring 8 group busses and 12 aux busses in FOH mode 12 monitor busses 8 mono 2 stereo in Monitor mode Swap mode allows fader control of Aux outputs in Monitor mode Integral 12x4 matrix can be expanded to 12x8 with optional matrix module 3 band EQ on FX returns 1 8 can be flipped into output fader path New Mic Amp design with high headroom and outstanding CMRR New EQ design with focused response LCR panning on inputs 8 VCA groups and 8 Mute groups with snapshot automation and MIDI control Integrated control of BSS Audio Varicurve and dbx DriveRack Integral LED bargraph metering for all inputs and outputs Optional VU output meterbridge Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide Warranty Soundcraft is a trading division of Harman International Industries Ltd End User means the person who first puts the equipment into regular operation Dealer means the person other than Soundcraft if any from whom the End User purchased the Equipment provided such a person is authorised for this purpose by Soundcraft or its accredited Distributor Equipment means the equipment supplied with this manual If within the period of twelve months from the date of delivery of the Equipment to the End User it shall prove defective by reason only of faulty materials and or workmanship to such an extent that the effectiveness a
51. ta restoring the factory defaults All scenes will be empty i e no mutes VCA assignments all mute groups will be empty all User modes reset all mutes safes reset etc Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide Dumping and Reloading the Internal Memory The console uses standard MIDI Sys Ex protocol to allow saving and reloading of the scene memory to any MIDI device which can receive save and transmit Sys Ex data Transmitting a SysEx Dump A Dump Out can be generated either by pressing all at the same time YES NO Recall on the master panel or by requesting a dump with a Dump Out Request Sys Ex message During the Dump Out the display will flash do 128 scene packets followed by a Mute Group Assignments packet will be transmitted Notes A Dump out can only be initialized when in normal mode i e not scrolling in Store Insert modes and will not be initialized if currently dumping in During Dump Out all scene mode automation is disabled On completing the dump the console will return to normal operation displaying the current scene as usual During a dump out no MIDI mute messages will be transmitted and any incoming MIDI messages will be ignored Receiving a SysEx Dump For simplicity of operation the console will automatically accept a dump in when it receives valid data in the form of one of its own midi dumps It will not respond to any other type of Sys Ex dump On receiving a valid sysex packet the MID
52. ternal snapshot control from the scene computer A Preview mode allows editing and checking of mute groups and snapshots without disturbing the audio passing through the desk and Mutes can be set Safe SAFE PREV LED The SAFE PREV LED 23 is used to indicate the Mute Safe status of the channel or Preview mute status if the console is in Preview mode The channel is toggled in or out of SAFE mode using the MUTE switch after first engaging EDIT SAFES mode on the master CPU panel Steady illumination of the LED indicates a mute safe condition Preview status is indicated by flashing illumination upon entering Preview mode from the master module if the Mute is present in the previewed mute group or scene LED Input Metering The Stereo channel channel is fitted with a 12 segment LED bargraph meter 24 positioned next to each fader for maximum visibility and giving immediate graphic indication of incoming signals at the insert return VCA Assign LEDs The module is assigned to the 8 VCA Groups using the SOLO button 26 on each channel in conjunction with the VCA Master SOLO switches The whole console has to be switched into the VCA Assign Mode press the VCA Assign Mode switch located at the top of the master cpu panel in order for the SOLO switch functions to be changed in this way The current VCA assignments are indicated on the 8 VCA Assign LEDs 25 adjacent to the fader SOLO The Solo button 26 provides a stereo PFL fee
53. ther peripheral devices Connect all microphone lines Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide By following this sequence much time and future trouble will be saved and the result will be a quiet stable system Shielding Audio equipment is supplied with a variety of input and output configurations which must be taken into consideration when deciding where the screen connections should be made There are three sources of unwanted signal being impressed on the screen which are as follows Extraneous electrostatic or electromagnetic fields Noise and interference on the earth line Capacitive coupling between the screen and signal wires To minimise the adverse affects of the unwanted coupling to the signal wires it is important that the screen is connected at one end only i e the screen must not carry any signal current Any signal on the wires within the screen will be capacitively coupled to the screen This current will ultimately be returned to the source of the signal either directly if the screen is connected atthe signal source end or indirectly via the earthing system if the signal is connected at the signal destination end The indirect connection will cause an increase in high frequency cross talk and should be avoided wherever possible Therefore in general always connect the shield only at the signal source end In high RF areas the screen can also be connected to earth via a 0 01 mF capacitor This wil
54. tically controls the muddy lower mid frequencies when boosting lows The high pass filter 7 is variable from 30Hz 400Hz with bypass 8 if required The EQ section may be bypassed by releasing the EQ switch 9 The EQ section is four band with shelving sweep high and low frequency sections and fully parametric high mid and low mid bands The frequency ranges are 30Hz 500Hz LF 10 75Hz 1 3kHz Low Mid 11 750Hz 13kHz High Mid 12 and 1 2kHz 20kHz HF 13 with 15dB of cut or boost available at any frequency The Q is variable on the two mid bands from 0 5 to 3 Aux Sends There are 12 Aux sends 14 which can be used either as FX sends in FOH use or monitor mixes for monitoring Aux 1 amp 2 and 3 amp 4 can be switched to stereo pairs for in ear sends using the adjacent colour coded STE switches 15 Each send has 5dB of gain at maximum The Auxes can be switched Pre or Post fader by the adjacent PRE switches 16 which are in pairs for the first 8 sends and as one group for Aux 9 12 The default Pre fade signal for all Auxes is pre EQ but can be changed to post EQ via internal links both feeds follow the channel mute Subgroup Routing In addition to the 12 Aux sends 8 busses are provided for conventional subgrouping Routing to these is via 8 individual routing switches 17 The PAN to Groups switch 18 allows any odd even pair of group busses to follow the channel pan pot as a stereo pair Direct Output
55. tputs There is a pre fade insert point with separate jacks and TB osc 2 Mute 3 and AFL 4 buttons are provided 5 12 INSERTS gt u 0 0 0 0 INSERT INSERT ASERT INSERT 0 0 0 0 AM A8 2 2 The 12 segment LED bargraph meters 5 at the top of the section normally meter the Aux 9 12 Outputs but can be switched to meter the Matrix Outputs 1 4 by pressing the MTX buttons 6 below the meters Matrix 1 4 Outputs Section A 12x4 Matrix section is located immediately above Aux 9 12 Outputs Each of the 4 Outputs has a rotary master fader 7 with TB osc 8 Mute 9 and AFL 10 buttons and 12 receive knobs 11 control the mix levels fed to that Matrix Output from each of the 8 Groups the L R and C main outputs and an external line input from a rear panel 1 4 balanced jack The Matrix Output signal itself appears on a balanced XLR on the rear panel The Matrix capability can be expanded to 8 Outputs if required by fitting the optional 4 Mtx 4 Input module in place of the 8 way input module to the immediate right of the Master Matrix module ET m 56686 3 2 j gt Rear Connector Pinouts INSERT SEND INSERT RETURN amp EXT IN 1 4 TRS Jack Tip Signal Hot Ring Signal Cold Sleeve Ground AUX amp MATRIX OUTPUTS 3 pin male XLR Pin 1 Ground Pin 2 Signal Hot Pin 3 Signal Cold Preliminary Issue al m Master Section T
56. uted to the main mix busses using the MIX 10 and C 11 switches and the PAN 12 control Stereo FX Return with flippable EQ Located above each Group Aux Output section is a stereo FX return section A stereo line input from balanced rear panel jacks is fed via a 0 10dB gain switch 13 via a stereo 3 band EQ section see below to a rotary level fader 14 Illuminated Stereo PFL 15 and Mute 16 switches are provided Preliminary Issue 29 The stereo return signal be routed to the main MIX 17 and 18 busses or directly to the nearest pair of Output faders directly below the return using switches 1 2 3 4 5 6 or 7 8 19 This gives the following benefits to the return in addition to standard FX return to the main mix In Monitor applications when a pair of Output Faders will be controlling a stereo In Ear feed the return can provide an individual FX return for that mix Alternatively if all 8 subgroups are not being used in a FOH application the return can be routed to the output Faders and then to Mix allowing control of the return level by linear faders EQ The 3 band EQ section is normally part of the FX return signal path in which case it operates as a stereo EQ Alternatively the EQ can be flipped into the Output Fader signal path using the EQ TO O P FDR Switch 20 where it can be used to provide additional sweetening on In Ear feeds or subgroups In this case each EQ stage functions as a mono EQ
57. uts 22 and may be summed by simultaneous selection if required These sources are automatically overridden by an input or output solo signal The level of the PFL or AFL signal can be adjusted by 10dB using the PFL AFL TRIM control 23 The Monitor level rotary control can be swapped with the Centre Output master fader by pressing the Use C Fader button 2 adjacent to the rotary control The stereo Monitor phones signal can be summed to mono if required by pressing the MNO button 24 The headphones output socket is a stereo 1 4 jack 25 discretely mounted in a recessed socket in the fader panel fascia the phones Volume control 19 is located adjacent to the socket The headphone amplifier has a high power capability and is designed to deliver its full output voltage even into low impedance e g 8 ohm phones 2 Track Replay Input For replay of stereo tape CD or Minidisc sources a rotary level control 26 adjusts the signal level from the balanced 1 4 jack stereo inputs These can either be routed to the MIX bus with the MIX switch 27 or monitored on the monitor phones outputs as described above 2 r7 TALKBACK MONITOR OUT IN WEDGE soto eur L 05 OUT Optional Meterbridge Controls The optional buttons FDR 1 8 AUX 9 12 and MTX are used if the optional VU Meterbridge is fitted Three large VU meters with integral Peak LEDs meter the Mix left right and Centre output sign
58. wer down and will be restored when the console is powered back up Active mutes Manual mute status Active Mute Groups if User Mode 1 inactive Active VCA Groups VCA Assign Membership Active safes Mute Group Shortcuts if User Mode 1 active Output AFL pairing Last Recalled Scene User Settings Resetting the CPU CPU Reset In order to change User Modes without powering the console down or in the unlikely event of a CPU crash it can be re booted whilst the power is switched on The scene mute group and VCA assign memories will be unaffected by this procedure Press amp hold EDIT SAFES YES NO The CPU will be reset and will follow the same boot up sequence as when the console is powered up In the event of a serious CPU malfunction it is possible to force the CPU to reboot by pressing an internal switch on the CPU pcb itself This is accessible in an emergency by removing the screws holding the CPU fascia to the console and carefully lifting the CPU assembly out of the console until the large CPU pcb which lies flat at the bottom of the assembly can be reached The reset switch is visible on the top side of the board towards the centre of the front edge of the pcb Hard Reset Note Before performing a Hard Reset ensure that the scene memory has been backed up using a MIDI dump as all saved data will be erased Press Store Recall on power up to perform a Hard Reset A hard reset clears out all saved da
59. y with the master console MIDI Dumping over cascaded consoles MIDI Dump In Out will function locally for each console ie the memory of each console remains separate and both must be backed up separately When a console master or slave enters a MIDI dump In Out a message is automatically sent to the other console invoking it to enter MIDI Suspend state In this state all scene mode automation is disabled plus the display shows When the console finishes dumping a message is automatically sent to the other console invoking it to exit MIDI Suspend state returning to normal console operation Preliminary Issue MH3 User Guide MH3 User Guide MIDI Implementation over cascaded consoles MIDI Mutes The MIDI Mute implementation functions locally for each console Any MIDI mutes received at the console s MIDI In port will locally activate deactivate mutes as usual All MIDI mutes associated with manual mute activation deactivation will be transmitted via the local MIDI Out port as usual Scene Program Changes The MIDI Program Change implementation functions only on the master console Any MIDI program changes received at the master console s MIDI In port will recall scenes as usual Any MIDI program changes associated with scene recall unless User Mode 5 active will be transmitted by the master console s MIDI Out port Any MIDI program changes received at the slave console s MIDI In port will by ignored No MIDI
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